Mandy Ortiz

Class of 2021
Political Science and International Studies
Advocates for Human Rights

This summer I partnered with The Advocates for Human Rights (AHR). AHR is a non-profit organization located in Minneapolis that works towards combating human rights violations both nationally and internationally. Specifically, they have programs that work on advocacy for women’s rights, human trafficking, refugees/immigration (RIP), and international justice.

My summer project focused primarily on constructing an outreach plan for AHR that would connect them with counties in Minnesota and the Dakotas that have a high concentration of vulnerable trafficking populations. For the first part of my project, I created a database of organizations and companies that have requested H2-A and H2-B visas over the last three years; this would later help me develop maps indicating where the majority of visa applicants reside and where AHR would need to visit in order to have the greatest impact. This would also help me in planning out a trip to North Dakota for members of the trafficking and RIP programs to go and meet with various organization executives to discuss a potential partnership.

Throughout the summer I was able to work closely with the RIP program, working on the interview and intake process for asylum seekers and victims of trafficking. Through this I was able to attend court hearings and serve as an interpreter in places such as Sherburne County ICE Detention Center. This was an incredible part of my fellowship, as I was able to learn about the legalities behind asylum, connect with clients and see their cases play out in the political system, and evaluate the effectiveness of current state and federal policy regarding immigration/asylum.

My time at AHR was incredible. The work was difficult – both emotionally and mentally – but was absolutely worth it. Every person working at AHR is driven and passionate, and they really granted me independence in conducting my research and project. One of the most amazing parts of working there were the connections I made. I was able to connect with and learn from individuals working in larger organizations such as Safe Harbor and the UN to really understand and work against trafficking in Minnesota. This was a great summer experience, and I am excited to see how my project at AHR will carry on.